Bonobo, Alexandra Palace, gig review: A tantalising taste of the band's next direction

Alexandra Palace is packed to capacity for the homecoming finale of The North Borders tour and the 10,000 punters in the cavernous Great Hall are well up for it. From the haunting opening chimes of “Cirrus” pulsing around the arena, Bonobo has us eating out of his hand.

Simon Green serves up the best tunes from his compelling album, while weaving classics from Black Sands into the mix - including a standout “Stay the Same” with a stellar performance from Andreya Triana. He also drops brand new tune “Flashlight”; a hypnotic, funky bass-led belter that effortlessly builds - a tantalising taste of the band's next direction.

It's a fitting celebration for the end of the tour, a party atmosphere with an almost festival vibe helped by the wafts of street food stalls, balloons and confetti.

The band are as tight as you'd expect after honing the live show for over a year. Drummer Jack Baker's driving beats firing them on, a lush string section taking it to another level, horns providing extra punch.

Highlight for me has to be a spellbinding “First Fires” with Grey Reverend taking centre stage on acoustic guitar and vocals. A hushed sense of awe descends; a reverence that Mr Green truly deserves. I can't wait for the next instalment.